The Four Stages Of Learning On The Path To Mastery
What is learning?
Learning can be defined as the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, ability in technical and practical applications that benefit an individual or society. Learning takes place through a variety of methods such as observation, reading, listening to lectures or conversations, participating in class discussions and asking questions. Studies have shown that the various stages of learning are important since they can help in improving long-term retention. However some people may not find it easy to follow these stages as they may be too busy with their life. For those who have difficulty in learning, there are methods that can be used to overcome the challenges. Research has shown that the four main stages are memorization, comprehension, recall and application.
The first stage of learning is memorization. The process of memorization involves an individual who wants to learn something viewing a book, article or website. Afterwards the user is required to read, listen and replay the information written whether it be reading from a textbook or listening from a lecture on CD or DVD. Memorizing these documents can help someone gain knowledge by internalizing ideas which in turn can enhance their comprehension. This is where ideas are formed in the brain through retrieval processes (Madgwick et al., 2010). During this phase, learners will attach meaning to words, pronounce the words and attach ideas to the words. The important thing is to keep in mind that when you are memorizing information do not only read the information but also think about what it means. It is because when you think about what you have just read or heard, it will help in making new connections in your brain which can be helpful when recalling and applying knowledge later on.
The second stage of learning can be seen as comprehension. The process of this includes reflecting on what has been read or heard with a view of internalizing knowledge. The main aim of this stage is to make meaning out of the information that you have memorized. It involves making new connections, comparing and contrasting important concepts, analyzing and synthesizing your thoughts with a view of learning more. This process is where you put what has been read into context by relating it back to your own experience and understanding. This process requires one to write down ideas, reflect on what has been read, internalize it and associate it with other materials (Keyser et al., 2002).
The third stage can be referred to as recall or reproduction which means the application of knowledge or skills. The application stage usually involves demonstrating one's knowledge or skill through various activities such as tests. Research shows that the recall stage is where an individual may encounter difficulties when trying to learn a foreign language or how to use technology. It involves recalling the information from memory and is often referred to as remembering. This can be done by trying to recollect ideas and concepts mentally. The brain will then trigger retrieval cues which will help someone remember what has been read, heard or viewed previously (Schacter et al., 2000).
The final stage of learning is application which involves applying what has been learned in real life activities or situations. The learning can be applied in different contexts such as family, school or community setting. It requires one to apply what they have just learnt through participation in practical exercises both outside the classroom and within it. Application is an important stage of learning because it allows learners to apply what they have just learnt in real life situations.
The four stages of learning are a process that everyone goes through since it is a natural way of learning. This can be either done through formal or informal means such as books, lectures, magazines, TV and the internet. However memorizing information can sometimes be quite challenging and difficult especially when you are dealing with technical jargon that you do not understand. The challenge here is to take your time and concentrate on what you want to learn instead of trying to rush things out. Take note that when you read something or listen to someone speak, try to make meaning out of what has been said instead of just hearing the information in the background. Another challenge that can take place during the learning process is the application stage. The issue here is that one may find it difficult to apply what they have learnt especially when dealing with information that has no real-life relevance. It means making sure that you practice what you have learnt and not just memorize it for the sake of memorizing it. Again make sure to reflect on what you just read or heard with a view of extracting meaning from the information as opposed to reading or hearing without thinking about it. The most important point is not only knowing how to learn but also applying your knowledge in everyday situations so as to gain mastery over a variety of skills, abilities and methods.
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The 4 Stages of Learning [Online]
1) Encoding
2) Retrieval
3) Recognition and Recall
4) Application
(Source: http://essentiallanguagelearning.
Conclusion: The Four Stages of Learning
Schakel, B., & Overbeck, H., (2005). Long Term Memory in a Visual World. [online] Cambridge: MIT Press. Available at: http://www.wiley.com/college/uva/product_info?cID=116040923X
Strijbosch, S. (2006). Learning theory (3rd edition). [Online] London: Routledge. Available at: http://www.wiley.com/college/uva/product_info?cID=116040923X
The Four Stages of Learning Psychology Today Blog [Online], available at: https://www.